Spanish word

cabal

Pronunciation

IPA/kaˈβal/

Meaning

  • adjectivecomplete

Example

Recibí una explicación cabal sobre el problema.

I received a complete explanation of the problem.

Illustration for cabal (complete)

More examples

Antes de decidir, quiero una explicación cabal.

Before deciding, I want a complete explanation.

Core concept

A finished jigsaw puzzle with every piece in place.

Similar words

completo: Includes all components necessary for the whole.
entero: Is whole and undivided, intact as a single piece.
pleno: Reaches fullness in scope or intensity, thoroughly filled.
exacto: Is precisely correct in detail, measurement, or fact.

Definition in Spanish

Señala que algo está completo, exacto y sin omisiones.

Word origin

From a medieval Iberian Romance adjective ultimately from Latin meaning 'complete', cabal developed in Spanish to express thoroughness and exactness.

Usage tips

  • Spanish cabal is a false friend of English cabal ('secret group') and is stressed on the final syllable (ca-BAL) with no written accent.

Other meanings

  • detailedadjective
  • accurateadjective

Opposites

Word lists with this word